Slovenian startup “Juicy Marbles” unveiled a vegan filet mignon that is available for delivery in the United States and across Europe for a limited time.
Founded in 2020 by food technologist Tilen Travnik, microbiologist Luka Sincek, and biotechnologist Maj Hrovat, the startup created its vegan marbled steak by layering soy protein into linear fibers using the Meat-o-Matic Reverse Grinder TM 9000.
The device is still a patent-pending technology that reverse-engineers animal meat improving later on the flavor, longevity, juiciness retention, crust development, and nutrition profile.
The result is a filet mignon ready for consumers, it arrives unseasoned but tastes the same as meat without the necessity to kill animals.
The biggest challenge was getting the right fiber alignment and intramuscular fat structure—the marbling. The most expensive steaks in the world are known for their lush marbling. It takes a lot of energy and a rare breed of cow to attain that,
With plant meat, we control it and, thus, over time, can scale up our steak production and bring down the price. Eventually, we'll be able to make the most premium meats attainable for everyone.
Luka Sincek, microbiologist
The company's mission is to provide a more efficient, but just as delicious, form of protein that does not require all the raise cows.
Juicy Marbles plans to open a production facility in Austin, TX with the target of making its premium vegan stake cheaper than store-bought animal meat within a year.